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Citations, Bibliography & Integrity

When writing for business, it is essential that you keep in mind the overall objective: "making the case" for the reader.  No matter what case you're making, the only way your business paper will have integrity is for it to be based on sound, objective reasoning that is based on research.

Since you are not yet an expert on the topic you are writing about, it is essential that you document everything you read indicating the source of your knowledge.  Even if you are just using the information you read from your textbook or on the assigned web site, cite it!  It's a good habit to get into, and it gives credibility to your writing.  Without the citations and bibliography, it looks like you're trying to claim the information as your own creation.  You don't want to be accused of plagiarism.  

Use the MLA style for all citations within the paper and in the Bibliography.  Refer to the Writer's Workshop (online) at the University of Illinois, Champlain for the MLA style manual.  This lists examples and defines how to document anything you need using MLA style!  

In the normal sequence of researching the issues for a paper or project, you should always start with an outline that guides the reader through your presentation.  

As you find information that relates to each portion of your "case," you must show where you found that information.  

Citations and works cited.  Any time you use someone else's idea, statistic, or words, you must cite the paragraph within the narrative.  For each assignment, you should have a Works Cited or Bibliography at the end that lists every web site, book, magazine article, or other source you read about the topic. 

Whether you use MLA or APA or another style to show the citations and bibliography, it must be easy for the reader to find where you read the concept.  It should be easy for the reader to go back to the original source and read more about that topic.

Use the style manuals that are available online.  Use NoodleTools.com to help you build the bibliography or works cited.  

©Division of Business, Economics & Mathematics, WVUP, 2011.  Updated 06/05/2012 .  Division Chair:  Steve.Morgan@mail.wvu.edu ;Business Division Office:  Lauriel.Edwards@mail.wvu.edu
Web Page Contact:  pam.braden@mail.wvu.edu West Virginia University at Parkersburg